Sedimentary Rocks Lecture 9

A set of flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to sedimentary rocks as discussed in the lecture.

Weathering

The physical or chemical breakdown of rocks without transport of clasts.

Erosion

The process that involves the transport of weathered rock away from its location.

Sediment

Small, solid particles of material that originate from the weathering and erosion of rocks.

Lithification

The process of turning loose sediment into solid rock through compaction and cementation.

Clastic Sedimentary Rocks

Rocks formed from the accumulation of clasts, such as sandstone and shale.

Compaction

The process of reducing the volume of sediment by applying pressure.

Cementation

The binding together of particles by chemical precipitation in the spaces between them.

Chemical Sedimentary Rocks

Rocks formed by the precipitation of minerals from solution, such as limestone and rock salt.

Oxidation

A chemical weathering process that involves the reaction of minerals with oxygen, often altering their chemical composition.

Hydrolysis

A chemical weathering process where water partially dissolves silicate minerals, leading to the formation of clay.

Frost Wedging

A type of physical weathering where water freezes in cracks of rocks, expanding and causing the rock to fracture.

Halite

A naturally occurring form of sodium chloride (NaCl), commonly known as rock salt.

Calcite

A mineral composed of calcium carbonate (CaCO3), commonly found in limestone.

Bowen's Reaction Series

A sequence of minerals that form during the cooling of magma, helping to understand the composition of the Earth's crust.

Biochemical Sedimentary Rocks

Rocks formed from the remains of living organisms, like coal.